The heavyweight division takes center stage once again at UFC Freedom 250, but this time the spotlight falls on one of the promotion’s fastest-rising contenders.
Josh Hokit enters the White House card undefeated and riding the biggest win of his career after a thrilling battle with Curtis Blaydes.
The buildup has been anything but quiet. Hokit was at the center of the chaotic Freedom 250 press conference, where he exchanged verbal shots with several fighters throughout the event, especially Ilia Topuria.
Now the former collegiate wrestling standout gets his chance to make another statement against one of the most dangerous knockout artists in UFC history.
For Derrick Lewis, this feels like a final opportunity to prove he still belongs among the heavyweight elite. For Hokit, it is a chance to take another major step toward title contention.
Josh Hokit vs Derrick Lewis Odds
Josh Hokit (-450 / 1.22) vs Derrick Lewis (+350 / 4.50)
Derrick Lewis still has one weapon
At 41 years old, Lewis remains one of the scariest punchers the sport has ever seen. His 16 UFC knockout victories remain a company record, and every opponent who stands across from him must respect that power.
The problem is that Lewis has become increasingly dependent on landing that one fight-changing shot.
His recent loss to Waldo Cortes-Acosta highlighted the issue. Lewis struggled to keep pace with a faster opponent and had difficulty pulling the trigger when opportunities presented themselves.
He also has holes in his grappling, as he was outwrestled by Jailton Almeida and submitted by Serghei Spivac.
There is no mystery to Lewis’ path to victory here. He needs to catch Hokit charging forward and land a perfectly timed right hand. I think he has about 10% chance of doing that.
Josh Hokit has all the tools
Hokit is much more than a prospect with a personality.
The former Fresno State football player and accomplished wrestler has shown impressive development in every area of MMA. His victory over Curtis Blaydes proved he can survive adversity, push through exhaustion, and continue fighting at a high pace.
Blaydes landed clean shots. He secured takedowns. He forced Hokit into uncomfortable situations. Yet Hokit kept moving forward and ultimately earned the biggest victory of his career.
That kind of resilience matters in heavyweight MMA. Stylistically, this matchup looks favorable for Hokit. He is faster, younger, more athletic, and possesses a significant wrestling advantage. Unlike many heavyweights, he does not need to win a striking battle to succeed.
He can pressure Lewis with combinations, force reactions, and mix in takedowns whenever he chooses.
Josh Hokit vs Derrick Lewis Prediction
Lewis always has a puncher’s chance. Anyone who says otherwise has not watched enough Derrick Lewis fights. But this will likely be a changing-of-the-guard matchup.
Hokit is entering his athletic prime while Lewis appears to be nearing the end of an incredible UFC run. The younger fighter should be able to pressure Lewis, force him backward, and eventually bring the fight to the ground.
Once Hokit gets on top, his wrestling advantage becomes overwhelming. He is also smart enough not to stand and trade with Lewis.
I expect him to bum-rush Lewis early with punches, mix in takedowns, and wear down “The Black Beast” before finding a finish with ground-and-pound, probably in or before round 2.
Josh Hokit vs Derrick Lewis Prediction: Josh Hokit by TKO, Round 2 (ground and pound)
Best Bet: ✅ Josh Hokit by TKO/KO
Confidence:⭐⭐⭐⭐